Introduction to Pampered Chef Chicken Broccoli Braid
Cooking at home can sometimes feel like a daunting task, but the rewards are well worth the effort. With recipes like the Pampered Chef Chicken Broccoli Braid, you can savor delicious flavors while enjoying a nutritious dining experience. Studies show that home-cooked meals not only contribute to better health but also foster family connections. Preparing meals allows you to control the ingredients, ensuring that what you serve is wholesome and tailored to your taste.
One of the standout features of this dish is how versatile it is. It combines tender chicken, vibrant broccoli, and a melty cheese filling, all wrapped in the delightful flakiness of crescent roll dough. Imagine wrapping your kitchen in the heavenly aroma of this braid as it bakes. It’s the kind of comfort food that can satisfy even the pickiest eaters, making it a hit for family dinners or casual gatherings with friends.
Plus, the Pampered Chef Chicken Broccoli Braid is relatively straightforward to prepare, allowing you to enjoy quality time with loved ones while the meal comes together effortlessly. So, let's dive in and explore this mouthwatering recipe that you’ll want to add to your regular rotation! If you're interested in meal prepping, you might also enjoy these tips on how to streamline cooking.
Ingredients for Pampered Chef Chicken Broccoli Braid
When you’re ready to whip up the delightful Pampered Chef Chicken Broccoli Braid, it all starts with gathering the right ingredients. Let’s break them down!
Essential Ingredients for the Braid
To create this satisfying main course, you’ll need:
- 1 cup of fresh broccoli florets: Adds vibrant color and essential vitamins.
- 2 cups of cooked chicken breast: The star of the show, offering lean protein.
- ½ cup finely chopped red bell pepper: For a mild sweetness and a pop of color.
- 4 ounces of sharp cheddar cheese: Because who doesn’t love cheesy goodness?
- ½ cup mayonnaise: Adds creaminess and ties everything together.
- 2 teaspoons dried dill weed: Perfect for that aromatic hint of flavor.
- 1 clove minced garlic: For an extra kick in every bite.
- ¼ teaspoon salt: A must for seasoning.
- 2 packages refrigerated crescent rolls: The flaky embrace of the braid.
- 1 large egg white and 2 tablespoons slivered almonds: For a golden finish.
Optional Ingredients for Added Flavor
Feel free to tailor your Pampered Chef Chicken Broccoli Braid with these tasty additions:
- ½ cup sautéed onions: For a rich depth of flavor.
- Extra veggies: Carrots or spinach work well too.
- Spinach: Adds greens and additional nutrients.
These optional ingredients can elevate your dish, making it a family favorite. Give them a try and see how they enhance your meal!
For more cooking inspiration and tips, check out sites like The Spruce Eats and Food Network. Happy cooking!
Step-by-Step Preparation of Pampered Chef Chicken Broccoli Braid
Creating the Pampered Chef Chicken Broccoli Braid is not only a delightful culinary adventure but also a great way to impress friends and family with a dish that's both delicious and visually appealing. Follow these simple steps to whip up your own braid!
Gather and prep your ingredients
Before diving into the fun part, it’s essential to have all your ingredients on hand. For this dish, you’ll need:
- 1 cup fresh broccoli florets
- 2 cups cooked chicken breasts, chopped
- ½ cup finely chopped red bell pepper
- 4 ounces shredded sharp cheddar cheese
- ½ cup mayonnaise
- 2 teaspoons dried dill weed
- 1 clove minced garlic
- ¼ teaspoon salt
- 2 packages of refrigerated crescent rolls
- 1 large egg white
- 2 tablespoons slivered almonds
Make sure your chicken is cooked ahead of time. You can use leftovers or pick up a rotisserie chicken for convenience.
Mix the filling components
In a large mixing bowl, combine the chopped chicken, fresh broccoli florets, red bell pepper, and minced garlic. This colorful medley serves not just for taste but for presentation too! After mixing, gently stir in the shredded cheese, mayonnaise, salt, and dill weed until everything is well incorporated.
Prepare the crescent roll dough
Roll out a generous piece of parchment paper on your countertop, ensuring you have enough space to work. Open one tube of crescent rolls and unroll it horizontally on the parchment so that the longer side lays left to right. Next, do the same with the second tube, placing it right next to the first one. Press the seams together to create a single sheet of dough. If you're using crescent dough sheets, this step will be even simpler.
Assemble the braid
With your dough ready, it’s time to fill! Pour the chicken and broccoli mixture down the center of the dough, leaving about an inch of space on the top and bottom. To create the braid effect, cut the dough into 1-inch strips on both sides, angling slightly towards the filling.
Starting at one end, grasp a strip and lay it across the filling, then alternate sides. This braiding technique not only secures the filling but also adds a lovely visual appeal. Once complete, transfer the braid onto your prepared baking sheet.
Bake to perfection
Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C). Brush the assembled braid with egg white using a pastry brush, and sprinkle the slivered almonds on top for an extra crunch. Bake for 24-28 minutes, or until the top is golden brown.
Don't forget to let it cool slightly before slicing! You’ll end up with a wonderfully flaky, cheesy bread that’s sure to be a hit at your dinner table. Enjoy your homemade Pampered Chef Chicken Broccoli Braid! For more tips on healthy eating, check out the USDA Dietary Guidelines.
Variations on Pampered Chef Chicken Broccoli Braid
Adding a Twist with Different Veggies
One of the great things about the Pampered Chef Chicken Broccoli Braid is its versatility! Feel free to experiment with various vegetables to suit your taste or to clean out that crisper drawer. Consider adding sautéed spinach, zucchini, or mushrooms to add depth and texture. You can even sneak in some colorful carrots or snap peas for a pop of color and crunch. The possibilities are endless, and incorporating seasonal produce can elevate this dish even further.
Cheese Alternatives for a Unique Flavor
Cheese lovers, rejoice! While sharp cheddar is a classic choice for the Pampered Chef Chicken Broccoli Braid, don’t shy away from trying other cheese options. Creamy mozzarella or nutty gouda can provide a delightful twist. For a bold flavor, consider blue cheese or feta. If you’re looking for a lighter option, cottage cheese or a vegan alternative could work too! Each cheese brings a unique character to the braid and can make it feel entirely new each time you make it.
By playing around with different ingredients, you’re sure to create a perfectly personalized version of this crowd-pleasing dish. Enjoy the creativity!
Cooking Tips and Notes for Pampered Chef Chicken Broccoli Braid
Ensuring the Dough is Manageable
To create a beautifully flaky Pampered Chef Chicken Broccoli Braid, keep your crescent roll dough cold until you’re ready to use it. If the dough warms up and becomes sticky, pop it back in the fridge for a few minutes. This simple trick will make it much easier to work with and will help achieve that delightful texture everyone loves.
Suggestions for Customizing the Filling
Feel free to get creative with the filling of your Pampered Chef Chicken Broccoli Braid! You can easily swap out ingredients to suit your tastes. Consider adding sautéed onions or swapping the cheddar cheese for mozzarella for a milder flavor. Want some extra zing? Toss in jalapeños or a sprinkle of red pepper flakes for heat. If you’re looking for more inspiration, check out this guide on customizing chicken dishes for a fresh take!
Serving Suggestions for Pampered Chef Chicken Broccoli Braid
Ideal Side Dishes That Complement the Braid
To round out your Pampered Chef Chicken Broccoli Braid, consider these delightful side dishes:
- Simple Salad: Crisp greens tossed with cherry tomatoes and a light vinaigrette add freshness.
- Roasted Vegetables: Carrots, bell peppers, or asparagus offer a colorful and nutritious complement.
- Garlic Bread: A side of warm garlic bread is a classic pairing that always pleases.
These sides create a beautifully balanced meal that’s perfect for any occasion!
Creative Ways to Serve It
Think outside the box when presenting your Chicken Broccoli Braid:
- Individual Portions: Cut the braid into smaller pieces for easy serving at gatherings.
- Dipping Sauces: Offer ranch or a creamy garlic dip for a fun twist.
- Casserole Style: Serve it on a bed of quinoa or rice to soak up any delicious filling.
These creative serving ideas will elevate your dish and impress your guests! For some additional inspiration, check out this list of easy side dishes that pair perfectly.
Time Breakdown for Pampered Chef Chicken Broccoli Braid
Preparation Time
In just 15 minutes, you'll have your ingredients prepped and ready. Chop the broccoli, shred the cheese, and mix your filling—easy and quick!
Cooking Time
Bake your Pampered Chef Chicken Broccoli Braid for 25 minutes until it’s golden brown and delicious.
Total Time
In only 40 minutes, you can transform these simple ingredients into a mouthwatering main course that everyone will love! This dish is a great option for busy weeknights or a fun dinner party.
Nutritional Facts for Pampered Chef Chicken Broccoli Braid
Calories and Macronutrients
Each serving of the Pampered Chef Chicken Broccoli Braid contains approximately 576 calories. The macronutrient breakdown is as follows:
- Carbohydrates: 33g
- Protein: 24g
- Fat: 40g (including 14g saturated fat)
These numbers highlight a protein-rich dish perfect for a filling meal when you're on the go!
Key Vitamins and Minerals
This delightful braid is not just comforting; it also packs a nutritional punch! Here's what you'll find in each serving:
- Vitamin A: 697 IU
- Vitamin C: 30mg
- Calcium: 163mg
- Iron: 2mg
Packed with broccoli and chicken, this dish offers essential vitamins and contributes to your daily intake. If you're interested in exploring more about the nutritional benefits of these ingredients, the National Institutes of Health is a great resource.
Whether you're meal-prepping or just looking for a hearty weeknight dinner, the Pampered Chef Chicken Broccoli Braid satisfies cravings while keeping you nourished!
FAQs about Pampered Chef Chicken Broccoli Braid
Can I make this braid ahead of time?
Absolutely! You can prepare the Pampered Chef Chicken Broccoli Braid up to a day in advance. Simply assemble the braid, cover it with plastic wrap, and refrigerate until you're ready to bake. This makes it perfect for meal planning or impressing guests with minimal last-minute effort.
What are some good dipping sauces?
Pair your delicious braid with a variety of dips to elevate its flavor. Consider trying:
- Ranch Dressing: A classic favorite that complements the dish perfectly.
- Honey Mustard: Adds a sweet kick that goes wonderfully with chicken.
- Buffalo Sauce: For those who love a bit of heat, this is a fantastic option.
Getting creative with your dips can really enhance the experience!
Can this recipe be frozen?
Yes, you can freeze the Pampered Chef Chicken Broccoli Braid! After assembling it, wrap it tightly in plastic wrap and then in foil to prevent freezer burn. When you're ready to enjoy it, simply thaw it in the fridge overnight and bake as directed. It's a convenient, tasty make-ahead meal option!
Conclusion on Pampered Chef Chicken Broccoli Braid
In summary, the Pampered Chef Chicken Broccoli Braid is not only simple to make but also a fantastic way to incorporate nutritious ingredients into a delicious dish. Perfect for busy weeknights or family gatherings, this recipe is sure to impress. Enjoy every bite of this delightful twist on dinner!
Pampered Chef Chicken Broccoli Braid
Equipment
- baking sheet
- parchment paper
- large bowl
- pastry brush
Ingredients
- 1 cup broccoli florets fresh, uncooked
- 2 cups cooked chicken about 2 breasts
- ½ cup red bell pepper finely chopped
- 4 ounces sharp cheddar cheese shredded
- ½ cup mayonnaise
- 2 teaspoons dill weed dried
- 1 clove garlic minced
- ¼ teaspoon salt
- 2 packages crescent rolls refrigerated
- 1 large egg white
- 2 tablespoons slivered almonds
Instructions
- Preheat your oven to 375°F. Line a 13 x 9-inch baking sheet with parchment paper, set aside.
- In a large bowl add in the broccoli florets, chicken breast chunks, red bell pepper, and garlic. Mix together well.
- Next, add in the cheese, mayo, salt, and dill. Combine gently.
- Roll out a large piece of parchment to work on. Open one can of crescent rolls and unroll it onto the parchment so that the length runs from left to right.
- Open the next can of rolls and lay it right next to the first one. Press all of the seams together to ensure none of the filling leaks out. If you are using the crescent dough sheets you only have to press together the middle seam.
- Pour the filling into the center of the dough, keeping it about an inch away from the top and bottom.
- Starting on one side of the dough, cut it into 1-inch strips at a slight diagonal until you have about 10 strips. Repeat the same on the other side.
- At one end, pick up one of the strips and set across the filling. Then grab the strip on the opposing side and set it across the first strip. Make sure to seal any open gaps so that no filling leaks out. Continue down the whole length of the braid.
- Transfer to the parchment covered baking sheet.
- Brush egg white on the dough with a pastry brush. Sprinkle on almonds.
- Bake for 24-28 minutes.
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